Toulouse, April 2007

Dear friends,

It would seem to us that 2007 has already had its full share of events and blessings...

In February, the French church here ordained me to the pastoral ministry. The ordination took place on a Sunday, and we made a whole day out of it.  It was a beautiful day.  The church was very kind and honoring to us.  Several other pastors spoke throughout the day.  I gave my testimony, underwent a questioning time, and was showered with lots of affection.  Such moments give us those same feelings as Paul towards his people, 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20  For who is our hope or joy or crown of exultation? Is it not even you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming?  For you are our glory and joy.” A few days later, Rebecca and I made a two-day trip to London for Valentine's Day.  

In March, I met up with my father in Bamako, Mali for a trip to Timbuktu.  After corresponding some time with a Malian pastor in Timbuktu and seeking to understand the needs of the church there, my father decided to visit in person, and invited me to accompany him.  It was very encouraging.  We saw Psalm 107.30 happen before our eyes: He changes a wilderness into a pool of water and a dry land into springs of water.  It is entirely to the glory of God that the gospel thrives in such a place (Timbuktu is Islam’s fifth holy city).  Mali being French-speaking, I was able to speak several times during a church leadership conference that the church was hosting while we were there.     See pictures at www.niblack.org/sam/mali.

The church in Toulouse continues to receive from the fountain of God's grace: numerous baptisms and visitors, general unity, a good group of young couples, several very positive youth camps, etc.    Although we have constant proof that sin is never dormant and never absent, the gospel is stronger. 

And one final piece of good news, summarized in this poem:

The doom of gloom
An Easter Poem

Springtime—new life abloom.
Jerusalem—new life in tomb.
Toulouse—new life in womb.

For His Name’s Sake,

Sam Niblack

Some pictures :

The desert turban

“Hats Off”, an evening of fellowship and teaching for couples in the church

Bap-Tie-zing

My family